Optimization of channel geometry in a mini-cooling system: A study of triangular, square, and semicircular sections

Abstract

This work examines both experimental and numerical methodologies for a cooling system applied to a copper flat plate under steady-state conditions. The primary factors examined are different inlet fluid temperatures, high applied heat rates, and the various geometries of the channel cross-sections. the effect of the Reynolds number on wall temperature, pressure drop inside the channels, and heat transfer coefficient. The subsequent analysis examines the influence of pump power on the wall temperature and the temperature of the cooling fluid at the outlet. Ultimately, pressure reductions, heat transfer coefficients, and the thermal absorption of the cooling fluid at varying flow rates are compared throughout the three channel geometries. The ideal flow rate for the system has been determined. The findings indicate that the square channel geometry significantly outperforms earlier designs, with a maximum heat removal rate of 339 W at an optimal flow rate of 0.019 L/s. Research on pressure drops indicates that the square channel results in minimum pressure loss for the cooling fluid. Furthermore, numerical simulations conducted using COMSOL software demonstrate a significant coincidence with experimental data, with a maximum deviation of around 4 %. Such evidence indicates that the numerical results are accurate and dependable.

Keywords

• Mini-cooling system
• High heat rate
• Turbulence flow
• Solar collector
• Photovoltaic systems
• Heat transfer